For the first time, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) launches its Fund 100 Christmas appeal – calling on the community to come together and give what they can to help fund life-saving missions this festive season.
For the charity’s critical care teams, Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year. Last December, they were dispatched to help 132 patients, more than half of these occurring between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. Many of these incidents were serious medical and traumatic emergencies such as falls, cardiac arrests, neurological incidents and respiratory crises – moments when every second truly matters.
Whether it’s day or night, Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, the charity’s pilots, doctors, and critical care paramedics are ready to respond whenever they’re needed.
EHAAT’s Chief Executive Officer, Mark Jarman-Howe, said:
“As a charity, we rely on the generosity of our community to keep our helicopters flying and our critical care teams ready to respond. This Christmas, we’re asking people across Essex and Hertfordshire to come together and help us fund 100 life-saving missions. However much someone can give, whether it’s a few pounds or more, every donation truly makes a difference. Our supporters are incredible, and we know they’ll want to help make sure we can be there for everyone who needs us this festive season.”
To accompany the appeal, the charity has launched a new TV advert that captures the reality of being on duty at Christmas. It shows crew members sharing Christmas dinner together at the airbase before the familiar sound of the klaxon calls them away mid-meal – a reminder that emergencies don’t wait, even during the holidays.
Critical Care Paramedic Laurie Phillipson who features in the TV ad, said:
“Christmas is such a special time for families, and of course it’s hard for us to be away from our loved ones. But we’re an emergency service, working 24/7, 365 days a year, and it’s a privilege to be there for people on what is often the worst day of their lives. With the community’s support, we can make sure we’re ready to respond whenever and wherever we’re needed this Christmas.”
EHAAT is not part of the NHS and receives no direct government funding for its missions. Every life-saving response is only possible thanks to public donations.
By donating to the Fund 100 Christmas appeal, supporters will help cover the cost of the charity’s crews reaching 100 patients in urgent need across Essex and Hertfordshire this festive season.
To donate or find out more, visit ehaat.org or call 0345 2417 690.
